Lawrence went out for his high school’s hockey team. It was a tradition with the team that for the first month the veterans would regularly demean the new players. Criticizing their on-ice skills, but mainly making derisive comments – always obscene – about their manhood.

Lawrence knew this was part of the standard hazing ritual that went with being on the team. Still, he felt humiliated when they did it and was glad when it was over.

But he also couldn’t wait until next year when he would have his turn – with the next crop of rookies.

There is a definite philosophy that underlies hazing: It says that being the target of humiliation – where you actually suffer – is somehow good for you. It makes you a better person. It “builds character.” ...